- In addition to the description of water as a beverage attention may be called briefly to its value as a medicine or remedy for disease. The theory of the hydropathic system of medicine is based on the assumption of the curative powers of water. The cardinal principles of hydropathy are accepted by all schools of medicine. The value of external applications of water, both as a means of cleansing and as a control of temperature, are acknowledged by all physicians. The copious drinking of water is also regarded as an efficient remedy in many diseases.